Mullaway

Mullaway is a sleepy coastal hamlet on the NSW North Coast, where the lush hinterland meets the Pacific. This is the kind of place where you kick off your shoes, breathe in salt air, and let the rhythm of the waves dictate your day. It’s a true escape for those who value uncrowded beaches, coastal walks, and a chilled-out vibe.

Highlights & What to See

• Mullaway Beach: A long, sweeping stretch of sand patrolled in summer, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply strolling at sunset. The headland at the southern end offers a great vantage point for whale watching (June–November).
• Mullaway Headland Walking Track: A short but scenic coastal walk that winds through coastal heath and offers panoramic views north to Coffs Harbour and south to the Solitary Islands. Keep an eye out for migratory birds and sea eagles.
• Nearby Woolgoolga: Head a few minutes north to explore the “curry capital” of the North Coast, where a vibrant Sikh community has left its mark with the impressive Gurudwara Sahib temple and a cluster of excellent Indian restaurants.
• Solitary Islands Coastal Walk: Mullaway is a key access point for this longer multi-day trek that hugs the coastline between Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, passing through stunning headlands, rainforest pockets, and secluded beaches.

Suggested Time to Spend

Mullaway is best enjoyed as a relaxed overnight stop or a two-day base for exploring the wider Coffs Coast. Spend a morning on the beach, an afternoon walking the headland track, and the evening watching the sunset with fish and chips. If you’re a keen walker, consider setting aside a full day to tackle a section of the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour: 15 minutes south, with the iconic Big Banana, the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, and a lively marina precinct.
• Woolgoolga: A few minutes north, offering a patrolled beach, the Woolgoolga Lake, and the aforementioned Indian eateries.
• Sawtell: A charming village 20 minutes south, known for its café culture, boutique shops, and the popular Sawtell Beach.
• Bongil Bongil National Park: A short drive inland, where you can kayak the Bongil Bongil Creek among mangroves and spot wallabies and koalas.
• Dorrigo National Park: About an hour west, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, with spectacular waterfalls and ancient rainforest walks.

Please check official sources for current details.